arnica

/ar·ni·ca/ (ahr´nĭ-kah) the dried flower heads of the composite-flowered species Arnica montana; preparations are used topically for contusions, sprains, and superficial wounds, and as a counterirritant.

arnica

(är′nĭ-kə)

n.

1. Any of various perennial herbs of the genus Arnica in the composite family, having opposite, simple leaves and yellow or orange flower heads.

2. A tincture of the dried flower heads of the European species A. montana, applied externally to reduce the pain and inflammation of bruises and sprains.

Arnica

Flower essence therapyArnica essence is believed to aid in recuperation from shock and trauma.

Herbal medicineAn annual, the flower and extracts of which contain thymol, resins, arnicin, carotenoids and flavonoids; it is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, an immune stimulant and cardiotonic; it should not be used internally at full strength.

HomeopathyArnica is a major homeopathic remedy used for bruises, concussions, emotional and physical shock, eyestrain, fractures, groin-strain pain, joint and muscle pain and recuperation from surgery or dental work; in children, Arnica is used for whooping cough and nightmares.

ar·ni·ca

(ahr'ni-kă)

(A. montana) Herbal agent of purported value in therapy for muscular pain and in wound healing. Serious reactions in children reported after overingestion. Some compounds containing arnica also include more dangerous agents. Synonym(s): leopard bane, mountain daisy, wolfbane.

Mountain arnica was first mentioned in Estonian botanical literature in 1777 by the Baltic German writer and linguist August Wilhelm Hupel (1737-1819), who mentions mountain arnica among local plants (Hupel 1777:519).

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